The search for the next head coach of the New York Giants has become a fiercely competitive affair, with a trio of high-profile names now in the frame. John Harbaugh, the recently departed Baltimore Ravens leader, is considered the favourite, but he faces growing competition from former Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski and a surprise candidate, ex-Las Vegas Raiders boss Antonio Pierce.
Pierce Makes a Powerful Impression
According to reports, Antonio Pierce significantly bolstered his prospects following an interview at the Giants' headquarters on Thursday. Columnist Ian O'Connor of The Athletic revealed that Pierce "did a very good job" and left an "extremely positive" mark on the decision-makers.
One source, familiar with Pierce from his playing days when he won a Super Bowl with the Giants in 2008, stated he was "blown away" by the candidate's personal growth. Another highlighted Pierce as a "born leader" who had absorbed much from former Giants coach Tom Coughlin.
Harbaugh Remains the Primary Target
Despite Pierce's strong showing, the organisation is set to pause its decision-making process until they have spoken with John Harbaugh. That conversation is not expected to take place until next week at the earliest.
Harbaugh, who left the Ravens after 18 seasons, is a man in demand. He has also been linked to the Miami Dolphins and Tennessee Titans vacancies. Intriguingly, he has received very public advice from former US President Donald Trump, who urged him via Truth Social to "TAKE THE JOB!!!" with the Giants.
His choice may be influenced by the quarterback situation at each club. The Giants have the dynamic but sometimes reckless Jaxson Dart, while the Titans boast 2025 No. 1 draft pick Cam Ward. The Dolphins offer a potential clean slate with Tua Tagovailoa's expected departure.
A Crowded Field of Candidates
Should Harbaugh opt for a different challenge, Kevin Stefanski is currently viewed as the most likely alternative for the Giants role. However, Antonio Pierce's compelling interview has dramatically improved his standing.
Pierce, who has a 9-17 record as a head coach, initially took over the Raiders on an interim basis in 2023. He was fired in January 2025, after which the team regressed to a 3-14 record under his successor, Pete Carroll.
The Giants are just one of several NFL teams with a leadership void, with the Falcons, Browns, Cardinals, and Raiders also searching for new head coaches as the 2026 season approaches.
